Cerebral Palsy Scotland will use the funding from the HFD Charitable Foundation to continue its Baby Buds group, which provides therapy and emotional support to parents and carers of children with cerebral palsy.
The group was established in 2018 at the charity’s centre in Port Dundas, and offers a safe and welcoming environment for families to connect, share experiences, and receive expert guidance from therapists.
The funding will also allow the charity to expand its reach and support more families across the country.
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong neurological condition caused by brain damage during pregnancy or childbirth.
It affects individuals in many different ways.
Early interventions, such as therapy, can significantly improve outcomes for children.
Isla Campbell Lupton, head of fundraising and communications at Cerebral Palsy Scotland, said: “Our Baby Buds sessions are the only ones available to parents in Scotland, and the support from the HFD Charitable Foundation has been essential in securing their future.
“The specialist therapies we offer are not currently available elsewhere, which makes this work a core part of our mission.
“Many children aren’t diagnosed until they’re around two years old, so we invite anyone who has concerns about their child’s motor development to join us.”
The Baby Buds group meets fortnightly, helping families connect while providing tailored support during the critical early stages of their child’s development.
Sessions are held fortnightly (Image: Supplied) The group incorporates messy play, sensory discovery, songs, and stories, all aimed at helping children develop movement skills that facilitate play, exploration, and communication.
Lynne Forrest, a mum who regularly attends Baby Buds with her two-and-a-half-year-old son, Liam, who has cerebral palsy, said: “Baby Buds is great for Liam, and the more therapy we get for him, the better.
“I take time off work so we can come along.
“The group setting works really well for him, as sometimes Liam can find it hard to engage with therapists at home.
“At Baby Buds, there are physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists all there in the room.
“Plus there are songs, fun activities and other children to play with.”
She also praised the support she has received, adding: “The group has also been a great help for me.
“When we first got Liam’s diagnosis I felt devastated, but coming to Baby Buds really helped.
“At the beginning, I was worried I would find the group upsetting, but it was the exact opposite, it’s such a positive experience.
“So, even though every child with cerebral palsy is different, it’s good to have that common ground with the other parents – it feels like you’re in the same boat.
“We always walk out of the centre feeling like we’ve had a great morning.”
Liam is one of the children who attends Baby Buds (Image: Supplied) Lauren McKenzie, ambassador for the HFD Charitable Foundation, said: “The work of Cerebral Palsy Scotland is making a significant difference for families affected by cerebral palsy.
“The Baby Buds group creates a nurturing space where children can progress at their own pace, and families have the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.
“The HFD Charitable Foundation was established to support causes like this, which positively impact the communities they serve.”
Traditional baby groups can often be isolating for carers of children with cerebral palsy, who face unique challenges in raising a child with this lifelong condition.
Baby Buds aims to foster a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere for all families.
